In a recent interview with NHS Media, General Asad Durrani, a seasoned Pakistani military official and intelligence expert, shared his thoughts on the evolving situation in Afghanistan, Pakistan’s foreign policy, and regional dynamics. General Durrani emphasized the need for Pakistan to take ownership of its policies, address internal challenges, and adopt a pragmatic approach towards neighboring countries, including Afghanistan and India.
Key Points
- It is important to maintain an independent foreign policy that is not influenced by external pressures.
- There is a need for greater accountability within the nation, with a focus on acknowledging mistakes and taking ownership of them rather than shifting blame onto others.
- Reciprocity in foreign relations is significant, and Pakistan’s support for neighboring countries should be met with corresponding actions and cooperation.
- A pragmatic approach to diplomacy is needed for inclusive governance, addressing internal challenges, and adopting well-devised strategies for improving relations with neighbouring countries.
General Durrani began by stressing the importance of Pakistan maintaining an independent foreign policy without succumbing to external pressures. He pointed out a recurring issue in Pakistani politics: the reluctance to acknowledge mistakes and a tendency to shift blame onto others. In the context of Afghanistan, he highlighted two significant pillars of Pakistan’s policy: providing support to Afghanistan against foreign resistance and expecting reciprocation in return.
One contentious issue raised by General Durrani was the blame game following the withdrawal of foreign forces from Afghanistan. He argued that Pakistan should not hold Afghanistan responsible for challenges that were, in part, caused by Pakistan’s previous policies. This includes the demand for Afghanistan to eliminate militants operating from its territory, a demand that Pakistan has long made of its neighbor. General Durrani cautioned that such issues only serve to create further challenges in the bilateral relationship.
General Durrani discussed the lack of segregation between Pashtoons and non-Pashtoons in Pakistan, emphasizing the unity that transcends ethnic divisions. He cautioned against intra-Pashtoon rivalries, which he deemed the most dangerous, and highlighted that internal differences within Pakistan contribute to instability. He noted that any resistance in Afghanistan would inevitably draw Pakistan into the conflict, turning it into a battleground.
General Durrani acknowledged the influence of Pashtoons in every part of Pakistan, underscoring their contributions to various fields. He argued against the state’s role in attempting to send these individuals back to their native regions, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and recognizing the positive impact of Pashtoon contributions to the country.
Regarding Pakistan’s relations with India, General Durrani suggested that stability within Pakistan is a prerequisite for any meaningful improvement in bilateral relations. He acknowledged India’s cautious approach in not engaging in dialogue with Pakistan and noted that Pakistan should address its internal dynamics and economic challenges before expecting progress in its relationship with India. General Durrani stressed that dialogue alone is insufficient; a well-devised strategy and mechanism is essential for fostering improved relations.
General Durrani also touched upon the evolving dynamics in the Middle East and Pakistan’s position in the region. He advised Pakistan not to harbor illusions about third-party intervention in its relations with India, emphasizing the importance of Pakistan taking the initiative for dialogue. He also highlighted the positive developments in the Middle East, particularly the recent reproachment between Iran and Saudi Arabia, which reduces the need for Pakistan to balance its relations in the region.
General Asad Durrani’s insights provide a valuable perspective on Pakistan’s foreign policy challenges, regional dynamics, and the need for introspection and policy adjustments. His emphasis on Pakistan’s responsibility for its policies, inclusive governance, and the importance of addressing internal dynamics serves as a relevant and academically sound analysis of the country’s current geopolitical landscape. To navigate these complex issues successfully, Pakistan must evolve its policies, engage in productive dialogue with neighboring nations, and work toward inclusive development for all its citizens.